Your search for the highest-rated city tour London offers ends here. From historic landmarks to royal attractions to pop culture destinations – London is home to all these sights and plenty more.
For a first-time visitor, navigating London can be overwhelming.
I would’ve gotten so lost, losing precious time finding my way in this bustling city if it weren’t for a Londoner friend who guided me around in 2019.
Since then, I am all for guided tours that can really help maximize your limited time in London. I’ve rounded up the most highly-rated city tour London’s got to make your trip a truly memorable one!
No. 1 Top-Rated City Tour London:
London-In-A-Day Walking City Tour
Trust me, there’s so much to see and experience.
This city also makes the perfect base to take the best weekend trips from London.
Best City Tour London For Foodies:
London Walks: East End Food Tour
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The no.1 top-rated tour boasts 100+ five-star reviews raving about its engaging London city tour of must-visit spots like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more in just 1 day.
I also highlighted a bonus tour for foodies to unveil the tastiest gourmet food London has to offer, hosted by an expert gastronome guide. It’s got 600+ five-star reviews!
Now let’s dive into the most recommended tours in London.
London’s Must-See Attractions
1. London-In-A-Day Walking City Tour
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 130 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 8 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you only have 1 day to spend in London, this walking city tour is a must-do! It packs London’s most iconic sights into an engaging, small-group tour to maximize your time here.
The walking tour begins at Westminster Abbey just before the crowd hits and leads to an insider’s spot for the best view of Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guards.
You’ll also visit Trafalgar Square and cruise on the Thames River to Tower Bridge as well as the Tower of London. Don’t worry about the Tower of London tickets price, this tour covers all admissions!
The London-In-A-Day Walking Tour includes:
・Guide
・Headsets
・All entrance fees
・Thames River cruise
What past guests loved about the tour:
“My husband and I did this tour on our second day in London and it was fabulous!
Sal was our tour guide and his level of knowledge for London history and inserting interesting stories and facts along the way made it so memorable.
– Gayla S (read more reviews)
I highly recommend this tour for anyone who is visiting London for the first time and desires a more personal small group guided option for seeing the stunning Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and great boat ride on the Thames.
2. Tower of London Beefeater & Crown Jewels Tour
⭐Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars, with more than 110 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 3 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you’re a British royal or history buff, you cannot miss this in-depth walking tour of the famed castle that is the Tower of London. It is even partly guided by a true British Beefeater!
What exactly is a Beefeater? More formally known as Yeomen Warders, Beefeaters are ceremonial guards of the Tower of London formed during Henry VII’s reign.
Get the exclusive insider scoop on this World Heritage Site’s thrilling stories and the life of its royal guardians. The tour’s early-access tickets give you a more leisurely experience of its historic buildings and grounds before the throng of crowds arrives.
It’s also home to the dazzling Crown Jewels that you’ll have plenty of time to admire!
The Tower of London Beefeater & Crown Jewels Tour includes:
・Guide
・Private tour with a British Beefeater
・Tower of London tickets – timed early access
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Our blue badge guide Mark was courteous and knowledgeable. For example, he told us what to look for when we toured the Crown Jewels by memory.
He made the history of the War of the Roses and Henry VIII come alive. He was responsive to questions. We spent three hours at the Tower and you could easily spend another hour. Wonderful experience!”
– A GetYourGuide Reviewer (read more reviews)
3. Private Guided & Chauffeured Tour of London
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars |⌛ Tour Length: 6 hours
Why choose this tour?
Going on tours with loved ones can be frustrating when everyone has different travel interests. What you need to enjoy a hassle-free London vacation together is this bespoke private tour personalized for your travel party.
Skip long lines for the London tourist bus. You will feel like a VIP whizzing through the city sightseeing London in this tour’s private vehicle with your own driver and an expert guide.
This tailor-made tour promises convenience and a good time for everyone you’re traveling with.
Families of young children, teens, and elderlies rave about how intuitive, thoughtful, and personable the guides have been. Bonus points for being wheelchair-friendly!
The Private Guided & Chauffeured Tour of London includes:
・Fully-customizable itinerary
・Hotel pickup and drop-off
・Guide
・Private driver
・Private air-conditioned vehicle
What past guests loved about the tour:
“I can’t say enough great things about this tour. Our guide, Gio, was extraordinary and so knowledgeable about British history and culture.
– A TripAdvisor Reviewer (read more reviews)
He tailored our tour to meet the interests of the adults and teens in our party. The tour was worth every penny and we’ll do it again on our next trip because there’s just so much to see and learn. Thanks to Gio and our driver, Sharif!! Cheers from the States”
4. London Natural History Museum Private Tour
⭐Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars | ⌛Tour Length: 2.5 hours
Why choose this tour?
London’s National History Museum is one of the world’s best national history museums
I could easily spend an entire day here! What better way to fully appreciate this illustrious museum than with a knowledgeable historian guide in an intimate, private tour?
Ask all the questions you want as you marvel at the wonders of the natural world.
This is where you get an up-close look at the extinct Dodo bird skeleton, study victim casts from the Lost City of Pompeii, learn the Cursed Amethyst’s tale, say hi to Sophie the world-famous Stegosaurus, and experience many more awe-inspiring sights.
The London Natural History Museum Private Tour includes:
・Entrance fee to National History Museum
・Professional art historian guide
・Private & semi-private (8 guests max) tour options
What past guests loved about the tour:
“We had a private tour around the museum with Becky who was fun, easy to talk to, and knew so much about the museum.
We had a 2 and a half hour tour around the museum seeing all the bits that we could in that time, having our questions answered and then after this we were left to roam on our own which was great and see any bits that we didn’t get quite enough time to see.
Worth absolutely every penny. This was our first trip here, firstly we are so glad we did it this way and we certainly will be back. Thank you!”
– A GetYourGuide Reviewer (read more reviews)
5. Open Top Bus London: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour London
⭐Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars, with more than 290 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: Up to 72 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you’re looking for a flexible tour to set your own travel pace, this sightseeing London bus tour is for you.
Get on the quintessential Hop-on Hop-off bus London is known for and revel in unobstructed views of this picture-perfect city. This double-decker open-top bus tour of London gives you unlimited stops along its extensive route of popular sights.
As you rest your feet on this London sightseeing bus heading to the next landmark, don’t forget to post up your snapshots with free WiFi on this Hop-on-off bus in London.
After all, London’s one of the world’s most tagged cities on Instagram Stories!
The Open Top Bus London: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour London Tour includes:
・Hop-on Hop-off bus ticket
・Sightseeing river cruise ticket
・Live commentary on board the open bus tour of London
・Up to 3-day tourist bus London pass with unlimited stops
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Worth every penny. Very comfortable, easy to redeem.Very effective and efficient. You can visit all the must see places in London by riding this big bus. Will surely try again if there is a chance. Will surely recommend to friends and family. Great time and amazing experience!”
– Tristian J (read more reviews)
London For True Foodies
6. London Walks: East End Food Tour
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 600 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 4 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you’re a huge foodie like me, you cannot miss this when you’re in London!
This small-group food tour takes you through the underrated district of East End. Make sure your appetite’s ready for the friendly guide to unveiling London’s hidden gems that locals haunt.
From timeless fares (fish & chips, anyone?) to seasonal exclusives to the latest artisanal food to hit London, you will not go hungry sampling the diverse cuisine East End’s got waiting for you.
While you’re at it, soak in the unpretentious and vibrant atmosphere as you are guided through some of London’s most scenic streets where gourmets gather.
The London Walks: East End Food Tour includes:
・Visit to 6 different gourmet locations
・Up to 10 local specialty food or drinks to taste
・Gastronome guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“The East End Food tour was such a fun and delicious experience.
Our tour guide Katie was very friendly and knowledgeable.
The East End is not necessarily an area that we would have known to visit on our trip to London but once there we were definitely excited to explore and learn about the cultural diversity and its history through food. Definitely, a must-do trip when in London!”
– CarolAnn B (read more reviews)
7. London Borough Market Food Tour
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 760 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 3.5 hours
Why choose this tour?
Located in the heart of London, Borough Market has a 1000-year history of serving high-quality produce and foods. It’s popular among locals and travelers to enjoy a taste of British food.
You’ll walk through this legendary market and learn about its best-kept secret eateries, bakeries, artisan stalls, and local pubs. Taste the best of British cheeses, tasty sausages, scrumptious puddings, award-winning fish & chips, and more here at Borough Market.
There’s also a Secret Dish that will only be revealed on the day. How exciting! Hundreds of reviews sing praises of this food tour, one of the best London guided walks for food lovers.
The London Borough Market Food Tour includes:
・Up to 7 local specialty food or drinks to taste
・Gastronome guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Tasty and well worth it! We loved this food tour, and it was even more special on our anniversary! Billy, our guide, was so kind, funny, knowledgeable, and cared about changing our perspective of traditional British food.
All of the dishes were tasty, the length between each place was perfect (never too full or hungry), and we got a fair amount of the history of London along with the delicious food!
I’m so glad we chose this tour, we went back the days after for more good food.”
– Mary R (read more reviews)
8. Historical London Pub Private Tour
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 230 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 2 to 4 hours
Why choose this tour?
When in Britain, do as the British do. Spend a good few hours on this crawl through London’s best pubs!
Drink in the opulent interior of the former Bank of England Law Courts-turned-pub. Savor locally-brewed beer. Step back into the 19th century at a typical Victorian pub with a classic G&T. Make merry at a haunted centuries-old bar.
Whatever floats your boat, the friendly guide will ensure you have the best time.
This walking tour is also one for history buffs! It takes you along well-known landmarks as well as quaint historical spots like the Old Curiosity Shop and Lincoln’s Inn. You’ll love the charming stories your guide’s got on these places.
The Historical London Pub Private Tour includes:
・Visit to 4-5 great pubs
・Guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Fun, informative and definitely recommend!
This was an amazing tour and I would recommend this tour to anyone going to London.
– Sean C (read more reviews)
The guide was informative and took us to a lot of great bars and even the oldest bar in London. The guide took us to special places that gave a place in history and we drank and learned a lot!”
London For Harry Potter Fans
9. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter
⭐Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars, with more than 780 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 7.5 hours
Why choose this tour?
Potterheads, unite! If you grew up with the Harry Potter stories just like I did, you’d surely want to witness how the magic happens at the official Harry Potter Studio Tour in London.
Here, the actual film set is on display and full-scale recreations of notable storybook locations like Diagon Alley come to life right in front of your eyes.
Start your witchcraft and wizardry adventure at Privet Drive’s Cupboard Under the Stairs or board the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9¾ like you’re going back to magic school.
Entry tickets to this studio tour are notoriously hard to score, so be sure to book the experience in advance. Here’s an insider’s tip: Secure an early slot for lesser crowds.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter Tour includes:
・Entrance fees
・Round-trip transport from several city points
・Branded bus, luxury bus & private small-group transfer options
・Free WiFi on board
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Omg, this is an eye-opening experience and is a must-go for all the Potterheads!
– Sally (read more reviews)
The studio shows the making and behind-the-scenes of Harry Potter and there were interactive areas such as Quidditch too! Totally love it!! Great deal on Klook too!
And of course, we need to try the butterbeer too (at the mid-station cafe). Remember to get the butterbèer with the cup there as the souvenir shop sells butterbeer in a bottle!”
10. Private Black Taxi Tour: Harry Potter In London
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, with more than 210 positive reviews! | ⌛Tour Length: 3 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you seek a different experience from the Harry Potter walking tour London has plenty of, hop on this iconic London Black Cab that takes you to Harry Potter film locations in VIP comfort.
You’ll enjoy full privacy with a tour itinerary personalized to your favorite magical moments.
Visit Diagon Alley, King’s Cross’ Platform 9¾ (yes it exists in the actual train station!), that magical telephone box that dives into the Ministry of Magic, and lots more real-life locations.
Travelling in a small group? Don’t worry, this private taxi tour sits up to 5 passengers with no extra charges. It’s also conveniently wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
The Private Black Taxi Tour: Harry Potter In London includes:
・Personalized tour itinerary
・Private London Black Taxi vehicle
・Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels
・Driver/guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Mark was such a great tour guide for our visit to Harry Potter’s world!!
He was so knowledgeable and even gave these super-fans a run for their money.
We especially appreciated that he showed a clip of each movie scene to refresh our memories when we arrived at the sights. Mark was also great about pointing out non-HP sites along our journey!
Would highly recommend Mark and his Harry Potter tour!!”
– Kelli B (read more reviews)
Hidden Gems of London
11. Secret Gardens of London Private Tour
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛Tour Length: 3 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you’re getting tired of all the city sightseeing London has to offer, this private tour is the perfectly-paced oasis your itinerary needs. It’s one of the best ways to see London from a different perspective, even if you’ve visited this modern city before.
This highly-rated walking tour guides you through London’s little-known back alleys, graveyards, beautiful ruins, and secret gardens that locals might not even know.
You’ll also enjoy the fascinating little stories behind each historical site.
Between this hidden gem and weekend trips from London, personally, I’m choosing this tour!
The Secret Gardens of London Private Tour includes:
・Hotel pickup and drop-off
・Visit to 12 different hidden locations
・Entrance fees
・Guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“A wonderful, informative tour of ‘secret’ London gardens.
We had an amazing morning with Stephen, who is a fount of knowledge. We explored so many wonderful sites that we would never have found without him.
Whether you are interested in history, gardens, or just some peace in the bustle of London take this tour. We cannot recommend it highly enough. Fabulous.”
– A TripAdvisor Reviewer (read more reviews)
12. Private London Tour Off the Beaten Track
⭐Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars |⌛ Tour Length: 2.5 hours
Why choose this tour?
Step away from mainstream tourist trails to get up close and personal with London’s alternative areas. You’ll be guided by a local expert who will take you on a walking tour full of surprises.
See Shoreditch, one of the coolest neighborhoods that have inspired fashion collections.
Check out popular street art and wall murals. Learn where to score the vintage clothing gems. Discover where hip Londoners are hanging out. Dive into the local lifestyle and architecture.
Let your guide know what you’re interested in and ask questions as you like. You’ll gain the ultimate insider access to London’s rich history and modern culture.
The Private London Tour Off the Beaten Track includes:
・Personalized tour itinerary
・Guide
・Carbon emissions offset
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Can really recommend. It’s meant to be interactive and that was great. Our guide was very knowledgeable about history as well as actual local topics.
Our main focus was more on street art and some local special community aspects. But you can interact if other topics are of more interest to you. We will remember this tour as our most valuable topic during our stay in London.”
– A GetYourGuide Reviewer (read more reviews)
13. Private Ghost Tour London
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛Tour Length: 3 hours
Why choose this tour?
Fancy a ghastly ghost walk London is notorious for? This city is home to one of the most haunted places in the world and the infamous serial killer, Jack The Ripper.
Fortunately for thrill-seekers, there are dozens of spooky spots that locals are wary of.
Get to know the cursed “Death Tree” of Green Park, learn about the haunted history of St James Park’s Red Lady, and more as you stroll through the dark streets of London at night.
Your ghost walking tour will be peppered with tales of paranormal encounters and scary stories of important landmarks too. (Psst, I highly recommend combining this tour with the London Dungeon boat ride, interactive shows, and storytelling sets for a truly thrilling day!)
The Private Ghost Tour London includes:
・Visit to about 4 different spooky locations
・English-speaking guide
What past guests loved about the tour:
“Valery was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. I learned so many cool facts about ghosts in London.
She was also very accommodating when I needed to reschedule, and then found me at a different starting location when I was lost. I would highly recommend this tour!!”
– A TripAdvisor Reviewer (read more reviews)
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FAQS On City Tour London
How Many Days Are Enough For a London Tour?
At least four to five days are enough for a London tour, especially for first-time travelers to visit the city’s many must-see attractions and sightseeing spots.
There is just so much to do, eat, see, and experience in London that you must make the most of your time with these highest-rated London city tours.
What Is The Best Month To Go To London?
The best month to go to London is from April to June and September to October when there are relatively lesser tourist crowds and you get to enjoy city sightseeing in more temperate weather. Having said that, bear in mind that these peak travel periods tend to have higher prices for flights and hotels.
What Month Is The Rainiest In London?
November is the rainiest month in London with at least 0.04 inches of rain on an average of 9.2 days. It tends to rain more in July, August, and October too. London’s rainy season goes on for about 8 months from May to February, with more than a 26% chance of rain.
What Are The Best Places For City Tours In London?
These places are the best places for city tours in London:
1. London-In-A-Day Walking City Tour
2. Tower of London Beefeater & Crown Jewels Tour
3. Private Guided & Chauffeured Tour of London
4. London Natural History Museum Private Tour
5. Open Top Bus London: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour London
6. London Walks: East End Food Tour
7. London Borough Market Food Tour
8. Historical London Pub Private Tour
9. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter
10. Private Black Taxi Tour: Harry Potter In London
11. Secret Gardens of London Private Tour
12. Private London Tour Off the Beaten Track
13. Private Ghost Tour London
How Long Is The London City Bus Tour?
The London City Bus Tour is 2 hours, 30 minutes long within its popular Red Route.
The Blue Route takes 3 hours, 30 minutes while the Green Link completes in 1 hour. Make more time in your travel schedule if want to hop on or hop off at any of the stops.
What Is The Best Way To Tour London?
The best way to tour London is with guided city tours for a hassle-free travel experience. This is my top travel tip for visiting London!
A guide lets you in on the best places to see, eat, and shop. You also get sightseeing tickets at amazing prices. Make sure to pick only the highest-rated tours.
How Much Does A Tour Bus Cost In London?
A tour bus in London generally costs £36.90 (USD45) for an adult, £27.90 (USD34) for a child, and £101.70 (USD124) for a family of four. This London sightseeing bus tour gives you 24 hours of unlimited use. You can also upgrade to 48-hour or 72-hour packages with additional charges.
How Long Is The Hop-On Hop-Off Tour London?
The London City Bus Tour is 2 hours, 30 minutes long within its popular Red Route.
The Blue Route takes 3 hours, 30 minutes while the Green Link completes in 1 hour. Make more time in your travel schedule if you want to hop on or hop off at any of the stops.
Found A City Tour In London That Calls Your Name?
Based on personal experience, my advice is to sign up for perhaps 2-3 of these tours within one trip if you can, to fully experience London from different perspectives!
London is so multi-faceted and culturally diverse. It’ll be such a shame if you don’t take full advantage of your time here. The best part is, everyone in England speaks English so you never have to worry about communication issues.
Whichever best city tour London has to offer that’s caught your attention, I know you’ll have a blast. Before you head out of town to explore the best day trips from London, make sure to sign up for these exciting city experiences.
If this guide has been helpful, share it with your travel buddies!
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